Thinking about hitting the road on a motorcycle at 13? While it may sound exciting, Texas law has specific age and licensing requirements for young riders. Here’s what you need to know before you start planning your ride.
Motorcycle Crash Statistics
Riding a motorcycle comes with a sense of freedom, but also a significant amount of risk—especially for younger, less experienced riders. In 2023, the Texas Department of Transportation reported that motorcycle fatalities were highest among riders aged 19-29. Serious injuries peaked at age 22 (83 reported), while minor injuries were most frequent at age 21 (128 reported) and age 19 (125 reported). Additionally, NHTSA states that 35% of motorcycle operators involved in fatal crashes in 2022 were riding without a valid motorcycle license. These figures highlight the risks faced by younger, potentially unlicensed riders. Understanding what leads to these crashes is essential for rider safety, as many accidents result from preventable factors.
Motorcycle License Requirements for Minors in Texas
For individuals aged 15 to 17, the Texas Department of Public Safety outlines specific requirements to obtain a Class M motorcycle license:
1. Age Requirements
- 15 years old – Eligible for a Class M learner’s permit with an “I” restriction (limited to motorcycles 250cc or smaller).
- 16 years old – Eligible to upgrade to a full Class M license, removing the engine size restriction.
2. Motorcycle Safety Course
- Must complete an approved motorcycle safety course and provide the completion certificate at a Texas Driver’s License Office.
- The certificate is valid for 24 months.
3. Driver Education Requirement
Before enrolling in a motorcycle safety course, you must:
- Have a Class C learner license and complete 32 hours of classroom driver education, OR
- Provide proof of completing a 32-hour driver education course.
4. Parent/Guardian Consent
- A parent or legal guardian must be present at the driver’s license office to sign the application.
5. School Enrollment Verification (VOE Form)
You must provide one of the following:
- A high school diploma or GED, OR
- A Verification of Enrollment and Attendance (VOE) Form, signed by a school official.
VOE Eligibility Requirements:
- Must have 90% attendance in the past semester (public, private, or homeschool).
- If in a high school equivalency exam prep program, must have been enrolled for at least 45 days.
- If applying during summer, provide your most recent report card with attendance and grades.
6. Motorcycle Skills Test
- All riders under 18 are required to pass a practical riding test.
- You must use your own motorcycle for the test.
- A car and a licensed driver must accompany you for supervision.
7. Out-of-State Motorcycle Licenses
- If you are under 18, you must complete Texas’ driver education requirements, even if you have a motorcycle license from another state.Â
- If you hold a valid motorcycle license (Class A, B or C)Â from another state, the Texas DPS may waive the motorcycle safety course requirement when transferring your license.
Motorcycle Rules for Minors
Even after obtaining a motorcycle permit, minors face additional restrictions, including:
- A learner’s permit (“J” restriction) requires supervision by a licensed motorcycle rider aged 21 or older who must remain in sight.
- Minors cannot carry passengers on their motorcycle.
- Riders under 21 years old must wear a helmet unless they qualify for an exemption under Texas law. Understanding Texas motorcycle helmet laws is essential for young riders, as helmet use plays a crucial role in preventing serious injuries.Â
How to Get a Motorcycle License in Texas
Once you meet the age requirements and complete the mandatory motorcycle safety course, you can apply for a motorcycle license at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You’ll need:
- A valid Texas learner’s permit or driver’s license.
- A certificate of completion from a motorcycle safety course.
- A completed Verification of Enrollment (VOE) form if under 18.
- A parent’s signature (if under 18).
After passing the written and riding exams, you will receive a Class M license, allowing you to legally ride a motorcycle in Texas.
Driving Without a Motorcycle License in Texas
Under Texas Transportation Code § 521.025, operating a motorcycle without a valid license in Texas is a misdemeanor offense with the following penalties:
- Fines: A first offense can result in a fine of up to $200. A second offense within a year carries fines ranging from $25 to $200. A third offense within a year of the second may lead to fines between $25 and $500.
- Jail Time: A third or subsequent offense may result in county jail confinement for 72 hours to six months.
- Serious Offenses: If an unlicensed rider is at fault in an accident causing serious injury or death while also violating Texas’ financial responsibility laws, the charge escalates to a Class A misdemeanor.
Riding legally with the proper motorcycle endorsement helps avoid these penalties and ensures compliance with Texas law.
Motorcycle Safety for Young Riders
Texas enforces age restrictions and limits engine sizes for younger riders to ensure their safety. For example, 15-year-olds are restricted to motorcycles with engines no larger than 250cc to ensure they start with manageable bikes. Furthermore, safety gear is crucial for all riders, particularly young motorcyclists. Wearing DOT-approved helmets, protective jackets and gloves, and sturdy riding boots is strongly advised to prevent serious injuries in the event of an accident.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Get Legal Help Today
Motorcycle accidents can occur unexpectedly, even for the most seasoned riders. If you’ve sustained injuries in a crash, recovering can be difficult. Our team of experienced motorcycle accident attorneys is here to assist you through the complexities of your case. We will fight for the compensation you’re entitled to and make sure your rights are upheld at every stage. Don’t tackle this challenge on your own—let us offer the support and legal expertise you need for a successful recovery.
